New 2023 Honda Civic Type R is a 315HP Super Hot Hatch

• Powertrain details revealed with 310 lb.-ft. of torque.

• Cooling improved for optimal performance.

• The new FL5 is longer, wider, and lower than the FK8.

Finally, Honda’s given us some actual details to chew on about the new Civic Type R. Frankly, Honda’s milked the heck out of this one with countless teasers, but the bottom line is that all will be forgiven because the car will be immense.

Back in July, Honda introduced the new Type R without actually revealing anything other than the car’s styling. This time, it’s different as we finally know how much power the turbocharged 2.0-litre 4-cylinder engine will put out. And we have some information on the chassis as well as dimensions.

“Type R is very important for Honda as the pinnacle of our factory performance and an irreplaceable brand that enables enthusiasts to experience Honda’s racing spirit, and seek the ultimate in speed and driving pleasure,” said Hideki Kakinuma, global Civic Type R development leader. “The all-new Civic Type R will continue that legacy, leveraging Honda’s racetrack-proven engineering to deliver extreme performance and passion—both on the road and on the racetrack.”

To start, the turbocharged 2.0-litre 4-cylinder engine develops 315 horsepower @ 6,500 rpm and 310 lb.-ft. of torque from 2,600 – 4,000 rpm, representing respective improvements of 9 and 15 over the FK8 Civic Type R. The K20C1 engine features a redesigned turbocharger, increased air intake flow rate, and a more efficient exhaust system (with a straight-through design and an active exhaust valve) for better overall efficiency. A larger grille opening, a bigger radiator, with a larger diameter fan improve engine cooling.

The 6-speed manual is, somehow, improved as well. Honda says interacting with the transmission will be even more intimate and rewarding than previously, via a lighter flywheel, a high-rigidity lever, and an optimized shift gate pattern.

The driving experience will also be heightened thanks to the current 11^th generation Civic’s platform. The FL5 will get a 35mm longer wheelbase, 26 mm wider front, and 19 mm wider rear tracks, along with lightweight 19-inch matte black alloy wheels wrapped in wider 265 section bespoke Michelin Pilot Sport 4S tires. All of these components will work in harmony with the retuned dual-axis strut front and multilink rear suspension.

On the topic of the suspension, the new 2023 Honda Civic Type R will feature adjustable dampers, like the FK8, however, it will benefit from a new “Individual Mode” mode (on top Comfort, Sport, and +R Mode) which will enable customization of the driving experience.

The cockpit will match that of the current Civic meaning it will include a 9-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and much more. As well, the driver will sit lower than before in a new, lighter, body-stabilizing sport seat.

The new Civic Type R is built at the Yorii Plant in Japan. Previously, it was assembled in Swindon, in the UK. The Type R’s K20C1 engine will once more be built at Honda’s Anna Engine Plant in Sidney, Ohio.

The new Civic Type R will be available in three colours: historic Championship White– a Type R exclusive finish revered by Honda enthusiasts, Rallye Red, and Sonic Grey Pearl.

Pricing remains unknown however we are predicting an approximate $50k-$52k MSRP in Canada. Additional details on the 2023 Honda Civic Type R will be provided closer to launch this fall.